GPS for Your Headaches

Head pounding? Here's your roadmap to the most common headache pains and how to get relief asap

Location: In the temples, from behind the hairline down to the your earsHow it feels: So tender to the touch that eating pudding feels like a chore

Your destination: TMJ-topia

The breakdown: Do you subconsciously clench your jaw? If you're going through a stressful period in your life, you may have started grinding your teeth in your sleep or during tense situations, which can cause persistent headaches.

Shortcut to relief: Dr. Salvado suggests taking an anti-inflammatory drug like ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen (not Tylenol) and using a warm compress for 20 minutes every hour while at home. After a week, if you don't see any improvement, make an appointment to see your primary care doctor. And as much as it may pain you (metaphorically), you must say no to chewy steaks and gum for at least two weeks. A diet of softer foods like mashed potatoes, eggs or bananas will be far more comforting to your jaw.

Down the road: If pain persists, consider being fitted for a mouth guard to protect from further damage.